Southland district council FIRST EDITION

This magazine brings Southland’s community stories, local updates and achievements together in one place. From election news to heritage features, each piece celebrates the people and places that make the district unique. The cover highlights Riverton’s restored pāua sculpture, capturing a vibrant moment that reflects the spirit of the community.

Brown Line
Magazine titled 'The First Edition' December 2025, Christmas edition, featuring a large, colorful, Pāua shell on a lakeside background with pine branches and hanging Christmas ornaments.
Decorative gold number 2025 on a black background.
Brown Line
The word 'SOPHIEJANE' in elegant, cursive script with a dark brown color on a black background.

Southland District Council December 2025 First Edition Magazine

The magazine was shaped around keeping things clean, calm and easy to follow. The layout leans into simplicity — plenty of space, clear structure and a pared-back palette that lets the content breathe. The aim was always to make the pages feel open and comfortable to read.

Typography does a lot of the heavy lifting. Using clear hierarchy and consistent styles helps guide readers through each section without overthinking it. The type choices bring a friendly, approachable tone, while still keeping everything organised and polished.

Overall, the design is there to support the stories, not compete with them. Visual elements are used lightly and with purpose, adding interest where needed while keeping the focus on the people and places being featured. The result is a publication that feels cohesive, warm and easy to spend time with.